High quality art on Luxembourg's doorstep

Art collectors in Luxembourg should earmark March 15 to 24 in their diaries when Maastricht hosts one of world's most important art fairs - the TEFAF.

01.03.2013

Art collectors in Luxembourg should earmark March 15 to 24 in their diaries when Maastricht hosts one of world's most important art fairs- the TEFAF.

Located just over two hours away from Luxembourg, the fair this year features more than 30,000 works from 265 exhibitors, and includes some of the most desirable pieces available on the international art market.

From stunning jewellery to sculptures, paintings, manuscripts, installations and furniture, the fair offers a feast for the eyes and the chance to see works which rarely get shown publicly.

Among the highlights of this year's event are an eight-metre tall suspended installation, dubbed Mary Poppins. Made by Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos from found objects, it welcomes visitors to the venue.

Others include 15 Van Gogh drawings on loan from the Van Gogh museum, a historic relic from a possible assassination attempt on Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, from Wartski, expected to fetch a six figure sum and a painting by Brueghel the Elder in 1594, which goes on the market for the first time in more than 400 years.

Promoting the event at an embassy event, Dutch Ambassador to Luxembourg Eduard Hoeks said: “I've been myself to the TEFAF a few years ago and I was really flabbergasted by the environment and the works of art. I thought if I have a chance to promote it, I will do so, not knowing I would become Ambassador to Luxembourg and have a chance to contribute.”

The TEFAF began 26 years ago and rapidly built a strong reputation based on its range of old Master paintings. It is estimated that 70 percent of all the old Master paintings available in the world art market are shown at Maastricht.

“Dealers will often keep their best pieces for Maastricht, so there are things they won't show elsewhere,” said TEFAF spokeswoman Titia Vellenga.

TEFAF takes place from March 15 to 24 at the Maastricht Exhibition and Congress Center. It is open daily from 11am to 7pm. For more information, visit www.tefaf.com